Asian Mix Caters to On-the-Go Lifestyles

One of my favorite Chinese restaurants growing up was Panda Cuisine near Ala Moana, so when I found out former owner Daniel Leung, along with its longtime chef opened up a new eatery called Asian Mix located in the same complex as the new Safeway on Beretania Street, I was excited to try it out.

“People are getting busier and busier, especially families, so we wanted to offer good quality, takeout food,” says Leung. “Also, the location is good and there’s plenty of parking. It’s restaurant-quality food, but with the convenience of a fast-food, takeout restaurant.”

Owner Daniel Leung

Shrimp with Honey Roasted Walnuts ($10.95)

House Fried Rice ($9.50)

Mapo Tofu with Ground Pork ($7.95)

Asian Mix opened in May, and according to Leung, about 75 percent of its customers order takeout. However, there are tables and chairs available outside for those who prefer to eat at the establishment.

The menu is extensive and features many traditional Chinese dishes and local favorites. Among the popular dishes are Ma Po Tofu with Ground Pork ($7.95) made with fresh soft tofu, minced ground pork and a brown Ma Po Tofu sauce that is mildly spicy; House Fried Rice ($9.50), which has shrimp, Virginia Ham, eggs and green onions; and Shrimp with Honey Roasted Walnuts ($10.95) made with an original recipe and sauce of sweet condensed milk, freshly squeezed lemon juice and mayonnaise resulting in a sweet and refreshing flavor.

For those who just don’t have time to wait, Asian Mix also offers a selection of cooked foods that can be ordered as a mix plate of one side with one choice ($5.45), one side with two choices ($6.95) or one side with three choices ($8.45). The restaurant also has pick-up-andgo Japanese-style bentos made fresh throughout the day, such as Yakitori ($4.95), Chicken Katsu ($6.25), Ton Katsu (6.35) and Misoyaki Butterfish ($9.95).

“Our idea is for people to come in and get quality food at very affordable prices and with no wait,” adds Leung. “Or if they order from the (cooked to order) menu the wait is five to 10 minutes at the most.”

There also are weekly specials. This week’s special is Zucchini Chicken and Mushroom for only $5.50.

Now, one of my longtime favorite restaurants has become a favorite fast-food restaurant, which is even better for my on-the-go lifestyle.